99% Invisible

In 99% Invisible, host Roman Mars delves into the elements of design that govern our daily lives, but are rarely noticed or discussed. He explains how pigeons get a bad reputation compared to doves, why garbage trucks should play classical music, and the delicate balance between slam dunks and three-point shots.

The episodes present interesting anecdotes from around the world and across industries, each helping to present a smarter, often counter-intuitive perspective on our culture and the built world.

5/

Planet Money

NPR

Finance can be a snooze to most people, but Planet Money takes a sideways look at the world of cash and business.

The podcast explains complex topics in easy-to-understand terms. Past episodes have delved into the complex world of aquarium bartering and free-money programs in Kenya.

Listening regularly might help you get a firmer grasp on 401(k) programs or hedge funds, but that knowledge will probably come through strange, funny stories.

6/

No Such Thing As A Fish

No Such Thing As A Fish

If you're a fan of British panel shows, specifically "QI" (Quite Interesting), then No Such Thing As A Fish is the logical next step.

The show combs through piles of historical oddities, scientific discoveries, and inane trivia that make for (quite) interesting conversation.

Success! How I Did It

The series is a collection of interviews with high-powered executives who share their (often non-linear) paths to the top. Recent guests include Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg, BuzzFeed founder Jonah Peretti, and LeBron James.

Each brings their unique viewpoint on how to achieve success across industries.

9/

The Food Chain

BBC

Put on by the BBC, The Food Chain explores the food industry from all angles, including the science of food production, the business of moving food from farms to supermarkets, and the latest health trends.

The series also examines the cultural significance of certain foods, taking an anthropological approach to the topic.

Recent episodes question whether foods need added doses of micro-nutrients (such as iodine in table salt), and what the diets of people who live to be older than 100 have in common.